In this episode, we sit down with JR Huerta, founder of Dallas Youth Sports and District 1 representative on the Dallas Parks and Recreation Board. JR shares the journey of turning a small volunteer-run baseball program into a thriving multi-sport organization serving thousands of kids. We also dive into his work organizing Oak Cliff’s annual Mardi Gras parade, his commitment to family-led leadership, and the lasting impact of Dallas Youth Sports on generations of kids and their families.

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In episode 10, we dive into the life and work of Monte Anderson—developer, visionary, and lifelong advocate for Oak Cliff. Monte shares his journey from motocross racer to shaping iconic projects like Tyler Station and the Belmont Hotel. We explore his unwavering commitment to Southern Dallas, his principles of “gentlefication,” and how he’s fostering walkable, multi-generational communities. With decades of experience and a deep love for Oak Cliff, Monte reveals how building with purpose creates a legacy that transcends generations.

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In episode 9, we welcome chef and owner Skye McDaniel of La Bodega in Oak Cliff’s Bishop Arts. Skye shares the journey of building a food-centric community space, inspired by her Sicilian family roots, love for travel, and commitment to ethical food sourcing. From hosting beloved “Sunday Suppers” to creating a space where intentionality meets hospitality, Skye dives into the challenges and rewards of sticking to her values in an industry driven by convenience. Join us for a deep look into how she’s built La Bodega as a neighborhood haven, fostering connections over every meal.

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In episode 8, we welcome photographer Richard Doherty, whose book Framing Oak Cliff offers a deeply personal visual diary of this vibrant Dallas neighborhood. Over 40 years, Richard has documented Oak Cliff’s ever-changing streets, capturing candid panoramas, quiet neighborhood scenes, and the small, often-overlooked details that define daily life. In this conversation, Richard shares his journey, revealing the stories behind his favorite shots, his unique techniques, and the inspiration that Oak Cliff provides. Join us for an exploration of Oak Cliff’s lasting impact on Richard’s work and the heart of the community as seen through his lens.

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In episode 7, we sit down with Jimmy Contreras, the visionary behind Taco Y Vino and LadyLove, to explore how he’s crafted Oak Cliff’s ultimate “third place”—a welcoming spot that’s as perfect for locals as it is for out-of-town guests. Jimmy shares insights into the spirit of Oak Cliff, the power of communal spaces, and how his team’s dedication has helped Taco Y Vino become a North Texas favorite. From pandemic pivots to the art of pairing tacos and wine, Jimmy’s journey reflects Oak Cliff’s unique blend of resilience, warmth, and community connection.

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Liz Lanier, founder of Joy Macarons, joins Doug and Grant to talk about turning her love for baking into a thriving Oak Cliff business. From pop-ups to multiple locations, Liz shares how community, design, and a focus on quality helped shape Joy Macarons into a neighborhood favorite, known for its macarons and house-made ice cream.

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In this episode of The Hidden City, Grant and Doug sit down with two-time James Beard Award winner and Texas Monthly’s Taco Editor, José Ralat. They dive into José’s journey to becoming the first-ever taco editor, the evolution of Texas’ taco scene, and the stories behind some of the state’s most iconic taco spots. With over 428 stops and more than 1,200 tacos sampled in just six months, José shares insights from his upcoming "Best Tacos" guide, discusses the deep roots of Tex-Mex cuisine, and introduces a new trend he’s coined as "Nuevo Tejano." Tune in to discover the tacos that make Oak Cliff a special place and why it’s a hub for incredible food and culture.

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In this episode, we sit down with Javier García del Moral, founder of Wild Detectives and Sketches of Spain. Javier shares his journey from Spain to Oak Cliff, discussing the creation of his beloved bookstore-bar, his role in bringing the world-renowned Hay Festival to the neighborhood, and the cultural bridge he's built between his roots in Spain and his home in Dallas. We explore how his ventures have become cultural hubs, fostering community and sparking meaningful conversations. Tune in to hear how Javier continues to shape Oak Cliff’s vibrant cultural landscape.

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In this episode, April Allen, president and CEO of the Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation, discusses her journey from Harvard graduate to Oak Cliff resident and leader of a transformative project. We explore how the park's unique design reflects Oak Cliff’s natural beauty and the vision for reconnecting neighborhoods long divided by infrastructure. April shares insights on the challenges of leading such a monumental project and her hopes for the park's impact on the community.

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In this episode, Taylor Toynes, founder of For Oak Cliff, shares how he transformed a back-to-school event into a thriving nonprofit. We discuss his journey as a lifelong Oak Cliff native, his vision for community empowerment, and the importance of addressing systemic oppression through education and action. Taylor opens up about the challenges and victories that have shaped For Oak Cliff’s mission to liberate and uplift the neighborhood he calls home.

Topics Covered

[00:02:30] Taylor’s multi-generational connection to Oak Cliff

[00:15:20] The beginnings of For Oak Cliff and its transformation into a nonprofit

[00:22:10] Systemic oppression in Dallas and the history of redlining

[00:30:45] The concept of the Super Block and why place-based efforts matter

[00:40:20] Taylor’s experience learning from Geoffrey Canada and the Harlem Children’s Zone

[00:50:10] Mark Zuckerberg, J. Cole, and a community garden

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Have a guest or topic suggestion? Visit us at www.hiddencitypodcast.com